October 10th, 2017

Hey Texas Thespians!
My name is Elam Blackwell and I want to share just a little bit about how being a Thespian has completely changed my life.

Now I know what you’re probably thinking… “This is the most cliche opening he could have for this article” “Everyone says theatre has ‘changed their life’” “It's been like 2 paragraphs and he still hasn't said anything worthwhile.”

Well you would be correct. Theatre has changed many people’s lives for the better. But I want to tell you about an adventure theatre has taken me on, to our nation's capitol.

“Great. Now he’s trying to tie in the whole ‘adventure awaits’ theme.”

Back in June, I went with my troupe to the International Thespian Festival in Lincoln, Nebraska (the most exciting town in the US). There I became an International Thespian Officer (or ITO), which basically means I get to travel around the country talking about how theatre is super amazing to a bunch of people! The first trip I went on was to Washington D.C. this past July, and oh what an adventure it was!

In D.C. I got to advocate for theatre on Capitol Hill! I was a part of a group that went around to talk to senators and representatives about passing a budget that gave more funding for the arts. It really was surreal to be able to walk into Ted Cruz’s office to talk about theatre!  It was an amazing experience that I wish everyone could have.

But I could have never done anything like that if it wasn’t for getting involved in theatre. In that way theatre has expanded my world farther than I could have ever imagined. So my message to you would be this: Don’t be afraid to take risks. Because risks are the best way to begin an adventure!

And now for some shameless self-promotion:
Follow me on twitter: @ITOElamB

and follow the International Thespian Officers on:
​Facebook: International Thespian Officers
Snapchat: ITOOfficial
Instagram: @internationalthespianofficers

Also follow the Texas Thespians on all social media!
Instagram: texasthespians
Snapchat: texas_thespians
Twitters: @texas_sto @texas_thespians

Thanks Thespians!